Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkhitha Thera, the Chief prelate of the Asgitiya chapter, has finally given consent to hold 'Night Races' in the sacred city of Kandy. 

Buddharakkitha Thera has told reported that he has given his consent on the grounds that the Night Races are not taking place on Dalada Veediya - where Dalada Maligawa (The Temple of tooth relic) is located. He has also stated that night races should not be allowed in Kandy after this year. 

Two days ago, chief prelates of all four chapters sent a joint letter to the President urging his to stop 'Kandy Night Races' as the event would violate the traditions and the sanctity of the town. The letter did not elicit any response from the government. 

However, the position of the other three chief prelates on this matter is not yet disclosed. 

None of the hardcore Sinhala-Buddhist organizations has voiced their opinion on night races being held in Kandy - one of the most sacred cities for Buddhists. Although the BBS held a religious event in Kandy today they never spoke about 'Night Races' or the letter sent by the Mahanayake Theras.